From the lakes region in the north to the Amalfi Coast in the south, Italy boasts a wealth of luxurious destinations which draw celebrities from the world over. The sky is the limit when it comes to pampering the rich. For those celebrities who do not already own property in Italy a la George Clooney in Bellagio or Sting in Tuscany, the following hotels can provide the seclusion and comfort necessary to satisfy even the most demanding of guests.
1. Hotel Cipriani, Venice
Since opening its doors in 1958, the Belmond Hotel Cipriani has welcomed dozens of celebrities, including Paul McCartney, Elizabeth Taylor, Elton John, Angelina Jolie, Julia Roberts and Steve Martin, to name just a few. The property’s elite Palladio Suite is suspended over the lagoon and offers panoramic views of the water. Guests enjoy the use of a private terrace, plunge pool and jacuzzi, shaded by jasmine. A personal butler and exclusive dinner service offer ultimate seclusion and relaxation.
2. Palazzo Margherita, Bernalda
In 1882, the Palazzo Margherita was built in Bernalda, the birthplace of Agostino Coppola, Francis Ford Coppola’s grandfather. Francis Ford Coppola purchased the elegant palazzo in 2004 with the desire to highlight the beauty of this still undiscovered province of Matera. The decor was designed by acclaimed French designer Jaques Grange, and provides guests with an authentically Italian atmosphere. Surrounded by gardens, courtyards and a swimming pool, guests are bound to feel more at home at the Palazzo Margherita than on vacation.
3. Hotel Splendido, Italian Riviera
Originally a monastery built in the 16th century, this gorgeous and historical property has played host to a number of celebrities, with the Duke of Windsor being the very first guest in the hotel’s history to sign the guestbook. Among many others include Ava Gardner, Stephen Spielberg, George Clooney and Naomi Campbell. It is no wonder stars flock to this seaside resort on the Italian Riviera; with its exquisite Presidential Suite, elite guests can enjoy a large private balcony with view of the bay, private dining and even Bulgari toiletries.
4. Hotel Hassler, Rome
Tom Cruise, Madonna, Jennifer Aniston, even King Juan Carlos have all been guests at this exceptional Roman hotel. The Presidential Suite Penthouse offers guests a 150 square meter terrace with gazebo, overlooking the Rome skyline. The suite is replete with antique furnishing of Louis XV, paintings by the Tintoretto and Caravaggio Schools, and handcut crystal chandeliers. The Hotel Hassler is the apex of luxury travel in Rome. The panoramic Michelin star restaurant, Imago, is one of the finest in Rome.
5. Villa d’Este, Lake Como
Originally built in 1568 as the summer residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Galilo, the Villa d’Este on Lake Como has been consistently ranked as one of the best hotels in the world. Perfectly situated on Lake Como, the hotel is renowned for its many gardens. Home to a 500 year old plane tree and a 16th century mosaic with nympheum, the gardens are just one glimpse into vacation paradise. The Cardinal Suite is the top tier accommodation at the Villa d’Este, with a large private terrace offering the most advantageous view of the lake. Antique furniture, crystal chandeliers, and furnishings adorned with venetian silks and velvet offer the highest level of comfort and luxury to guests. Because photographers are not allowed on the grounds of Villa d’Este, the hotel is popular among those celebrities who desire a truly private experience. The guest list includes Adrien Brody, Zsa-Zsa Gabor, Bon Jovi, Eddie Murphy and Mick Jagger, to name a few.
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